How and why did you get involved with CLEBC?

After working in the legal industry for 20+ years, I felt I needed a stimulating project. Approximately 4 years ago, I joined VCC’s Paralegal Department as an instructor and have been developing and teaching the personal injury course since. As CLEBC is a respected platform for professional education – and I love mentoring – I was elated to work with them and volunteer my discovery time to promote legal education in our province.

What are you are currently working on (or have most recently worked on) with CLEBC?

I am currently chairing a Personal Injury course on June 8, 2017 geared towards Paralegals and Jr. Lawyers with an overall theme of quantification. Senior trial lawyers and experts have agreed to share their wisdom on topics such as proving and prosecuting paediatric brain injury, the impact of chronic pain, pre-existing psychological injuries, principles of causation, defences that impact an award of damages, including a discussion on pecuniary damages. A client’s perspective on the importance of the role we all play in advocating on behalf of clients will also be shared.

What has been your most memorable CLEBC experience?

Working with CLEBC Program Lawyer, Raymond Lee and staff. They have been an incredible group to work with and have offered me flexibility to create my vision for this course.

What’s the most valuable piece of advice you have received?

Early in my career, a mentor once told me to always be confident, even when you are not. I learned that being confident was a mind shift, especially in situations where I felt uncomfortable or uncertain. It was a message to always have a positive attitude, continue enhancing your knowledge, and never be timid to take on a challenging role. It was great advice to receive from someone I looked up to!

What advice would you give newcomers interested in working in the legal profession?

Network with your fellow colleagues and volunteer your time! And create a habit for yourself to review reported decisions on the BCSC website on a weekly basis. It is a great way to increase your comprehension of the legal principles and to have a better understanding of our BCSC Civil Rules. This process will enhance one’s critical thinking skills and increase your confidence in approaching challenging files.

What has been the most rewarding part of your career?

I have so many to share, but I have been pleasantly surprised at how challenging and rewarding being an instructor has been. I am forced to continually update my course, and deliver a high-level program for my students, yet in return, little do they know how much I learn from them.

Other than law, what are you passionate about?

Family, my two sons and of course, skiing. I remember putting my son in ski school in Whistler at the age of 3. He kept falling, and crying because it was so cold out and wanted to quit. I recall telling my husband quietly that under no circumstance is he allowed to quit because selfishly, I was not prepared to give up skiing. Luckily, he passed that first year of ski school and 16 years later, he is on double black diamond runs, while sadly, his mom is stuck on blue! What are some of your favourite legal resources? (blogs, websites, etc.) CLEBC, of course! They have such an incredible library of papers on specific topics that are always helpful! I do often review the posted decisions on the BC Supreme Court Judgment site and CanLII.

Anything you’d like to shamelessly promote?

I serve on the Board of Directors of the British Columbia Paralegal Association (BCPA) which is a not-for-profit organization made up of 850 members. The BCPA promotes growth and professional development, continuing education and networking of paralegals in BC. I encourage all paralegals to join this incredible association and participate in our events.